Alex Marin
Alex Marin is a culinarian, and the owner/creator of Hungry Pants (eathungrypants.com), a plant-curious restaurant concept located in SoDo on South Orange Ave.
Who are some of your culinary role models?
Although I am not a trained chef, I have several formally trained chefs in my family. I also draw significant inspiration from Macrobiotics. My aunt Virginia Harper and cousin Chrisi Rawding are both trained Macrobiotic chefs. This inspires my health focused approach to food. I also draw significant inspiration from my Chilean heritage, as well as from my travels and all the many amazing cities that I have had the pleasure of calling home. The menu at Hungry Pants is diverse and drawn from inspiration along my life journey.
Alex Marin is a culinarian, and the owner/creator of Hungry Pants (Photo by Tom Ledford)
What is your motto or philosophy when it comes to food?
I am a purist when it comes to food. I believe diversity of flavor and color are central to the appeal of the dish. Food is energy and should not make you sluggish. I find that cooking methods and ingredient quality is not always a top priority in a fast-fine concept. At Hungry Pants we focus on responsible and sustainable sources for our animal and plant proteins alike. When organic is available, we lean in that direction. Balance is often a word not fully embraced in food culture beyond flavor. When I speak of balance, I am talking about the composition of the meal and if we have achieved a well-rounded and nutritious combination. I often refer to Hungry Pants as a “Clean Food Café.”
What is one of your proudest signature creations in the kitchen?
We are known for our “Nosh” or side dishes. The Most Delicious Potatoes (MDP) is a signature dish that pairs a roasted and flash fried sweet potato with an almond gremolata and garlic greek yogurt. The flavor profile “hits” as the kids say.
Which celebrity or well-known person would you most love to see come in and enjoy your food?
We have served several celebrities over the past four years. When there is a crew in town filming, they always order Hungry Pants. We have had the pleasure of personally creating menus for many of the film stars when in town. Because our menu is clean and focused, that often aligns with a more West Coast approach to eating.
What are some of your favorite local restaurants?
Lukes and Prato are great additions to the Orlando dining scene Hillstone is excellent, predictable, and a great people watching spot. I am partial to sushi, so Kabooki when I want to be fancy, Seito when I want elevated but approachable, and Ta Ke when I want casual/to-go.
What are some local food or beverage products that visitors should bring back home with them?
At Hungry Pants, we bottle our sauces for retail. They are inherently vegan and travel well. I am also a big fan of Panther Coffee (out of Miami). This is what we brew at HP and we have the coffee available for retail.
Why is Orlando such a great place for LGBTQ+ people who love food?
Orlando is a city that is driven by a creative class of people. Many of which have found the City Beautiful through their work experience in the arts and hospitality. The LGBTQ+ community is integrated into the fabric of Central Florida culture, community, and government. Creativity in food and business are no exception. As Orlando continues to blossom in food and culture, the LGBTQ+ community will continue to be at the forefront of this positive growth and change with open minds and increase consumer support. Drawing creativity from other markets, past experiences, and diverse backgrounds we make this “City Beautiful.”
